A patient diagnosed with an ischemic stroke developed symptoms within the last 2 hours. What should the nurse anticipate being prescribed for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

1. If the CT scan is positive for a hemorrhagic stroke, an immediate neurosurgical consult should be ordered. Immediate surgery for an ischemic stroke is not indicated at this time. The priority is to reestablish blood flow to limit neurologic deficits and preserve neurologic function. Once the patient has been stabilized and has recovered, carotid endarterectomy may be considered if indicated.
2. In the case of ischemic stroke, intravenous thrombolysis should be administered if the time since the onset of symptoms is less than 3 hours and the patient is eligible based on criteria.
3. Merely observing the patient is not sufficient because as the obstruction continues, the neurologic deficits worsen. The priority is to reestablish blood flow as soon as possible.
4. The use of IV fluids is a means to administer antihypertensive medications to control blood pressure. Fluid restriction may be indicated to assist in controlling hypertension but not so restricted as to cause dehydration, which would increase blood viscosity, raising the risk of the development of more thromboemboli.

A Patient Diagnosed with an Ischemic Stroke Developed Symptoms Within